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Sickle cell anaemia

Sickle cell anaemia, sometimes called sickle cell disease, is a condition in which the normally flexible and round red blood cells are sticky, rigid, and shaped like a tiny sickle or crescent. These oddly-shaped red blood cells can stick to the walls of blood vessels causing pain and blockages. Although sickle cell disease is generally diagnosed in childhood, there is no cure and treatment is life long.

Is sickle cell anaemia serious?

Can I prevent sickle cell anaemia?

Sickle cell anaemia is a genetic condition. If you have a family history of sickle cell anaemia, you may want to consult a genetic counselor before becoming pregnant.

How do I know if my child has sickle cell anaemia?

Sickle cell anaemia is usually diagnosed in infancy. Children with sickle cell have anaemia, pain, swelling in the hands and feet (usually the first sign in infants), jaundice, delayed growth, frequent infections, and vision problems.

How do I treat sickle cell anaemia?

Although there is no cure for sickle cell anemia, there are medications your child can take to manage the disease. He will need to take penicillin every day to prevent infection. Folic acid may prevent him from feeling run down and tired. If paracetamol, warm compresses, and massage donét help with pain, your doctor might recommend something stronger.

Should I call the doctor?

Call the doctor immediately if you are concerned that your child has sickle cell anaemia. If your child has any of the symptoms below, seek emergency treatment as these can be signs of a life-threatening condition called sickle cell crisis: